Discover Cincinnati - The Queen City's Charm
Explore Cincinnati's vibrant arts scene, historic neighborhoods, and delicious culinary delights. Plan your trip to the Queen City with our expert guide to attractions and itineraries.
Cincinnati, Ohio, lovingly dubbed the “Queen City,” gracefully unfurls along the majestic Ohio River, presenting a captivating tapestry woven from historic charm, a thriving arts scene, pioneering cuisine, and an unmistakable sense of community. This dynamic Midwestern hub, with its distinctive skyline reaching towards the Kentucky hills, invites travelers to discover a city where the past is preserved, the present is vibrant, and the future is always brewing—quite literally, given its rich brewing heritage.
Prepare to be enchanted by a city that proudly embraces its heritage while constantly reinventing itself. From the surprisingly addictive, cinnamon-laced Cincinnati chili that’s become a culinary legend, to meticulously restored 19th-century neighborhoods now pulsing with life, and world-class museums that tell compelling stories, Cincinnati offers an engaging and often unexpected journey for every visitor.
Seasonal Weather Guide
Plan your perfect getaway with our detailed seasonal forecast.
The Queen City’s Unmistakable Pulse
Cincinnati boasts a character unlike any other, deeply rooted in its German immigrant heritage and industrial past, yet now flourishing as a modern, forward-thinking Midwestern hub. This unique blend is palpable in the stunning architecture of its historic districts and in its distinctive culinary traditions, most notably the famous Cincinnati chili, a unique Mediterranean-spiced meat sauce served in peculiar yet delicious ways over spaghetti or hot dogs. The city’s spirit of revitalization shines brightly in the Over-the-Rhine (OTR) neighborhood, where once-neglected 19th-century buildings now house trendy boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and a booming craft brewery scene, making it a testament to urban renewal done right.
Beyond its culinary quirks and architectural marvels, Cincinnati fosters a vibrant cultural landscape. Art lovers can lose themselves in the expansive collections of the Cincinnati Art Museum or the cutting-edge exhibits at the Contemporary Arts Center, while history enthusiasts can delve into the poignant narratives at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Green spaces like Smale Riverfront Park and Washington Park provide serene escapes and lively gathering spots. All this, combined with its affordability compared to larger coastal cities, positions Cincinnati as an attractive destination for those seeking enriching experiences without a hefty price tag.
Things to Do
Unforgettable experiences await you.
Explore Over-the-Rhine (OTR)
Wander through the beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture of OTR, a revitalized historic district brimming with boutique shops, diverse restaurants, and craft breweries. It's perfect for a walking tour.
Visit Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
Housed in a stunning Art Deco train station, this center features multiple museums, including the Cincinnati History Museum, Museum of Natural History & Science, and the Duke Energy Children's Museum. It's an iconic landmark.
Indulge in Cincinnati Chili
Experience Cincinnati's most famous culinary creation, a unique Mediterranean-spiced meat sauce served over spaghetti or hot dogs. Try it '3-Way' (chili, spaghetti, cheese) at a local parlor for an authentic taste.
Stroll Smale Riverfront Park
Enjoy this expansive urban park along the Ohio River, offering scenic views, interactive fountains, playgrounds, and walking/biking paths. It's a fantastic spot for relaxation or family fun.
The Icons You’ll Want to See
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center — An incredibly impactful museum located on the riverfront, offering a profound journey through the history of slavery, the Underground Railroad, and ongoing struggles for freedom globally. Allow 2-3 hours; admission is approximately $16 per person.
Smale Riverfront Park & Roebling Suspension Bridge — Enjoy this sprawling park with its whimsical features, interactive fountains, and swinging benches overlooking the Ohio River. Walk across the iconic Roebling Suspension Bridge, a precursor to the Brooklyn Bridge, for fantastic skyline views from Covington, Kentucky, and consider a short drive to Devou Park for the absolute best panoramic city vistas. This experience is largely free and can fill a leisurely afternoon.
Findlay Market — Ohio’s oldest continuously operated public market, a bustling hub in Over-the-Rhine. Explore vendors selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and prepared foods. It’s a fantastic spot for breakfast or lunch, offering a true taste of local life. Go early, especially on Saturdays, to experience it at its most vibrant.
Over-the-Rhine (OTR) — A testament to urban revitalization, this historic neighborhood is famed for its stunning 19th-century Italianate architecture. Wander its charming streets, browse independent boutiques, visit Washington Park, and explore the myriad of craft breweries like Rhinegeist (tours available from $10). Allow at least a half-day to truly soak in the atmosphere.
Cincinnati Art Museum — Perched in picturesque Eden Park, this museum offers free general admission (parking is $4) and houses a vast collection spanning 6,000 years of art, from ancient to contemporary. Its diverse exhibits make it a must-visit for art aficionados. Plan for 2-4 hours.
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden — Consistently ranked among the nation’s best zoos, it’s famous worldwide for its conservation efforts and beloved resident, Fiona the hippo. Located just north of downtown, it’s an excellent family-friendly attraction. Admission is typically around $25 per person, and you’ll want 3-5 hours to explore.
Essential Guide
Everything you need to know.
Must-Visit Spots
Local Cuisine
Where to Stay
Travel Tips
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Cincinnati is straightforward: fly into Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), a 20-25 minute drive south of downtown served by most major airlines. For road-trippers, the city is well-connected by I-71, I-74, and I-75. While Amtrak offers limited service to the historic Union Terminal, the most pleasant times to visit are generally spring (April-May) and fall (September-October), when comfortable temperatures and vibrant foliage make exploring the city a joy. Summer brings festivals but also heat and humidity, while winter offers a quieter, cozier experience for indoor attractions.
Once here, navigating the core areas of downtown and Over-the-Rhine is a breeze on foot. The Cincinnati Bell Connector streetcar provides an affordable and efficient way to hop between downtown, OTR, and the riverfront for just $2 for a 2-hour pass or $5 for a day pass. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available, with typical airport rides to downtown costing $25-$35. While a car rental is recommended for extensive day trips to nearby attractions like the National Museum of the US Air Force in Dayton or Louisville, within the city center, rely on walking and the streetcar. Parking can be pricey ($10-25 for a few hours downtown/OTR), so plan accordingly. Don’t leave without trying Cincinnati chili; locals passionately debate between Skyline and Gold Star – try a “3-Way” or a “Cheese Coney” from both and pick your favorite! Accommodation options range from upscale downtown hotels like 21c Museum Hotel ($200-$350/night) to charming OTR boutique stays ($150-$250/night) and more budget-friendly options further out ($100-$180/night).
When to Visit
Choose the perfect time for your adventure.
Peak Season: Spring (April-May) & Fall (September-October)
Pros
- Pleasant, mild temperatures perfect for walking and outdoor activities.
- Vibrant foliage in fall and blooming flowers in spring.
- Numerous festivals and events during these months.
- Lower humidity compared to summer.
Cons
- Higher hotel prices and larger crowds at popular attractions.
- Spring can be unpredictable with sudden rain showers.
- Requires booking accommodations and tours in advance.
- Popular restaurants might have longer wait times.
Shoulder Season: Summer (June-August)
Pros
- Plenty of outdoor events, concerts, and baseball games.
- Longer daylight hours for extended sightseeing.
- Waterfront activities and park visits are at their peak.
- Lively atmosphere with many tourists and locals out and about.
Cons
- Can be very hot and humid, especially in July and August.
- Frequent afternoon thunderstorms may disrupt plans.
- Higher prices for flights and accommodations.
- Larger crowds at popular spots.
Off-Peak: Winter (November-March)
Pros
- Fewer crowds at museums and indoor attractions.
- Potentially lower prices on flights and hotels.
- Cozy atmosphere for enjoying local breweries and restaurants.
- Opportunity for holiday events and festive decorations (early winter).
Cons
- Cold temperatures and potential for snow or ice.
- Limited outdoor activities and some attractions may have reduced hours.
- Greyer skies and shorter daylight hours.
- Requires packing warm clothing and layers.
Cincinnati truly offers a compelling and multifaceted travel experience, blending deep-seated history with dynamic urban renewal, world-class arts, and a culinary scene that’s both iconic and inventive. From its friendly Midwestern hospitality to the scenic beauty of the Ohio River and the surprising delights around every corner, the Queen City beckons with an invitation to explore, discover, and savor a truly unique American destination.
Sample Itineraries
Cincinnati's Core in a Weekend
Experience the highlights of downtown, Over-the-Rhine, and a taste of the city's unique flavors.
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Day 1: Riverfront Views & Downtown Delights
- Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Begin your Cincinnati adventure with breakfast at Maplewood Kitchen and Bar (525 Race St, Downtown). Enjoy their fresh, vibrant menu (budget: ~$40 for two, 1 hour). After breakfast, immerse yourselves in history at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (50 E Freedom Way, Downtown). This powerful museum is located right on the Ohio River, offering a profound experience. Allow 2.5-3 hours (budget: ~$20 per person entrance fee, $40 total).
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:30 PM) Enjoy lunch at Moerlein Lager House (115 Joe Nuxhall Way, Downtown), which offers classic pub fare and house-brewed beers with views of the river and Great American Ball Park (budget: ~$50-60 for two, 1.5 hours). Post-lunch, take a leisurely stroll through Smale Riverfront Park, a beautiful green space with swings, fountains, and river access. Then, walk across the iconic Roebling Suspension Bridge into Covington, Kentucky, for stunning skyline views of Cincinnati (approx. 15-20 minutes walk each way across the bridge). Explore the small shops and cafes in Covington for a bit before heading back (total 2-2.5 hours).
- Evening (6:00 PM onwards) For dinner, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and modern Mexican cuisine at Nada (600 Walnut St, Downtown), known for its creative tacos and margaritas (budget: ~$80-100 for two, 1.5-2 hours). Afterward, head to The View at Shires’ Garden (309 Vine St, 10th Floor, Downtown) for a relaxing drink and panoramic city views from their rooftop bar (budget: ~$30-40 for two drinks). The hotel is likely within walking distance or a short streetcar ride away.
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Day 2: Over-the-Rhine’s Historic Charm & Culinary Gems
- Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM) Start your day in Over-the-Rhine (OTR) by taking the Cincinnati Bell Connector streetcar from downtown (approx. 10-15 minute ride, $2 per ride or $5 all-day pass) or a short Uber ride. Have breakfast at Brown Bear Bakery (116 E 13th St, OTR) for delicious pastries and coffee (budget: ~$25-30 for two, 1 hour). Spend the rest of the morning exploring Findlay Market (1801 Race St, OTR), Ohio’s oldest continuously operated public market. Wander through the stalls, sample local treats, and soak in the bustling atmosphere (1.5-2 hours).
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:30 PM) For lunch, grab a gourmet hot dog or poutine at Senate Pub (1212 Vine St, OTR), a local favorite with creative offerings (budget: ~$40-50 for two, 1 hour). After lunch, explore Washington Park, OTR’s central gathering spot, with its beautiful fountains and views of the historic Music Hall. Take a self-guided architectural walk down Vine Street, exploring the boutiques, art galleries, and historic buildings (2-3 hours, all within easy walking distance).
- Evening (6:00 PM onwards) Indulge in a delightful Italian dinner at Pepp & Dolores (1501 Vine St, OTR), known for its fresh pasta and intimate setting (budget: ~$90-120 for two, 1.5-2 hours). Afterward, experience Cincinnati’s brewing heritage with a visit to Rhinegeist Brewery (1910 Elm St, OTR), located in a massive former bottling plant. Enjoy a flight of their craft beers or a local cider (budget: ~$30-40 for two, 1.5 hours). All evening activities are easily walkable in OTR.
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Day 3: Art, Scenic Vistas & Cincinnati Chili
- Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM) Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at Sleepy Bee Cafe (8 E 4th St, Downtown, or 3093 O’Bryon St if heading east) for their farm-to-table breakfast and brunch options (budget: ~$35-45 for two, 1 hour). After breakfast, take an Uber or Lyft (approx. 15 minutes, ~$10-15) to Mount Adams, a charming hilltop neighborhood. Explore the quaint streets, enjoy panoramic views of the city and Ohio River from Eden Park and the overlook points (1.5-2 hours). You can also visit the Cincinnati Art Museum (953 Eden Park Dr, Eden Park), which offers free general admission, if art is a strong interest (allow 2-3 hours if visiting).
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM) It’s time for a quintessential Cincinnati experience: Skyline Chili. Head to one of their numerous downtown or OTR locations (e.g., 2905 Dixie Hwy, or 2828 Queen City Ave) for a “3-Way,” “4-Way,” or “5-Way” chili spaghetti (budget: ~$25-30 for two, 1 hour). This is a must-try unique flavor of the city. After your chili fix, depending on your departure time, you could revisit a favorite spot for last-minute souvenirs, or enjoy a coffee at a local cafe like Coffee Emporium (110 E Central Pkwy, OTR) (1-2 hours).
- Evening Enjoy a final casual dinner downtown, perhaps at Yard House (95 E Freedom Way, Downtown) for a wide selection of beers and diverse menu (budget: ~$60-80 for two). Or, depending on your departure schedule, head straight to the airport or train station, carrying fond memories of Cincinnati’s core.
Queen City Explorer
Dive deeper into Cincinnati's history, culture, and diverse neighborhoods, including museums and outdoor adventures.
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Day 1: OTR’s Historic Heartbeat & Culinary Delights
- Morning (9:30 AM - 12:30 PM)
Begin your Cincinnati adventure at Findlay Market (1801 Findlay St, Cincinnati, OH 45202), Ohio’s oldest continuously operated public market. Immerse yourselves in the vibrant atmosphere, sampling local treats and fresh produce. Grab a coffee from Deeper Roots Coffee and a pastry or breakfast sandwich from one of the many diverse vendors. Plan to spend about 2 hours exploring the indoor and outdoor stalls.
- Distance: Findlay Market is located in Over-the-Rhine (OTR). Depending on your lodging, take the Cincinnati Bell Connector (streetcar) which has a stop right at the market. A day pass is ~$2 per person.
- Cost: Breakfast/coffee ~$25-35 for two.
- Tip: Arrive earlier on a Saturday for the fullest market experience with additional outdoor vendors.
- Afternoon (12:30 PM - 5:30 PM)
From Findlay Market, walk south (0.5-1 mile, ~10-20 min) into the historic core of Over-the-Rhine. Embark on a self-guided architectural tour, admiring the beautifully preserved 19th-century Italianate buildings, especially along Vine Street and Main Street. For lunch, stop at Senate Pub (1212 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202), famous for its gourmet hot dogs and poutine. Afterwards, unwind at Washington Park (1230 Elm St, Cincinnati, OH 45202), enjoying its grand fountain, green spaces, and views of the iconic Music Hall.
- Cost: Lunch ~$40-60 for two.
- Time: OTR exploration and Washington Park: 3-4 hours.
- Evening (6:00 PM onwards)
Indulge in dinner at The Eagle OTR (1342 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202), a popular spot known for its delicious fried chicken, sides, and extensive craft beer selection in a rustic, lively setting. After dinner, head to Rhinegeist Brewery (1910 Elm St, Cincinnati, OH 45202) for a refreshing drink and, weather permitting, enjoy the city views from their rooftop bar or the spacious taproom.
- Cost: Dinner ~$80-110 for two. Drinks ~$30-45.
- Morning (9:30 AM - 12:30 PM)
Begin your Cincinnati adventure at Findlay Market (1801 Findlay St, Cincinnati, OH 45202), Ohio’s oldest continuously operated public market. Immerse yourselves in the vibrant atmosphere, sampling local treats and fresh produce. Grab a coffee from Deeper Roots Coffee and a pastry or breakfast sandwich from one of the many diverse vendors. Plan to spend about 2 hours exploring the indoor and outdoor stalls.
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Day 2: Riverfront Reflections & Skyline Views
- Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM)
Dedicate your morning to a profound experience at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (50 E Freedom Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202). This powerful museum explores the history of slavery in the US, the heroes of the Underground Railroad, and contemporary struggles for freedom worldwide. Allow 3-4 hours for a comprehensive visit.
- Distance: Located directly on the riverfront, easily accessible via the Cincinnati Bell Connector or a short walk from downtown.
- Cost: Admission ~$18 per person, totaling $36 for two.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:30 PM)
Enjoy lunch with a view at Moerlein Lager House (115 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202), situated right next to the Freedom Center, offering American pub fare and a wide selection of local craft beers. Post-lunch, take a leisurely walk across the iconic John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge to Covington, Kentucky, for breathtaking panoramic views of the Cincinnati skyline and the Ohio River. Spend time relaxing and exploring Smale Riverfront Park (166 W Mehring Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202), with its interactive water features, giant porch swings, and beautiful gardens.
- Cost: Lunch ~$45-65 for two.
- Time: Lunch, bridge walk, and park: 3-4 hours.
- Evening (6:00 PM onwards)
Dine in The Banks entertainment district, bustling with activity along the riverfront. Consider Nada (600 Walnut St, Cincinnati, OH 45202) for upscale, modern Mexican cuisine with a lively ambiance. After dinner, enjoy a final evening stroll along the riverfront or catch a Cincinnati Reds game at Great American Ball Park if it’s baseball season (check schedule and ticket availability).
- Cost: Dinner ~$80-120 for two. Optional Reds tickets ~$40-100+ per person.
- Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM)
Dedicate your morning to a profound experience at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (50 E Freedom Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202). This powerful museum explores the history of slavery in the US, the heroes of the Underground Railroad, and contemporary struggles for freedom worldwide. Allow 3-4 hours for a comprehensive visit.
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Day 3: Art, Gardens & Panoramic Heights
- Morning (10:00 AM - 1:30 PM)
Ascend to Eden Park for a dose of art and nature. Start at the Cincinnati Art Museum (953 Eden Park Dr, Cincinnati, OH 45206), which boasts an extensive collection spanning 6,000 years of art. General admission is free, allowing you to explore at your leisure for 3-4 hours.
- Distance: Eden Park is a short rideshare (~$10-15 one-way) or bus ride from downtown.
- Cost: Free general admission (special exhibits may have a fee, budget ~$20 if interested).
- Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:30 PM)
Walk through the picturesque Eden Park (approximately 15-20 minutes) to reach the Krohn Conservatory (1501 Eden Park Dr, Cincinnati, OH 45202), an exquisite Art Deco greenhouse housing thousands of plant species, including a popular seasonal butterfly show. Afterwards, enjoy a casual lunch at Mount Adams Bar & Grill (938 Hatch St, Cincinnati, OH 45202) for a classic diner experience in the charming Mount Adams neighborhood, adjacent to Eden Park. Take time to soak in the incredible city views from the Twin Lakes Overlook and other scenic points within Eden Park.
- Cost: Krohn Conservatory admission ~$10 per person, totaling $20 for two. Lunch ~$35-55 for two.
- Evening (6:00 PM onwards)
Explore the unique hillside village of Mount Adams, known for its narrow streets and Victorian architecture. For dinner, enjoy the ambiance and good food at Zola Pub & Grill (938 Hatch St, Cincinnati, OH 45202), a local favorite. Afterward, head to Mount Adams Pavilion (949 Pavilion St, Cincinnati, OH 45202) for drinks and spectacular night views of the city skyline.
- Cost: Dinner ~$70-110 for two. Drinks ~$30-45.
- Morning (10:00 AM - 1:30 PM)
Ascend to Eden Park for a dose of art and nature. Start at the Cincinnati Art Museum (953 Eden Park Dr, Cincinnati, OH 45206), which boasts an extensive collection spanning 6,000 years of art. General admission is free, allowing you to explore at your leisure for 3-4 hours.
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Day 4: Grand Architecture & Brewing Heritage
- Morning (9:30 AM - 1:30 PM)
Journey to the magnificent Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal (1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45203). This stunning Art Deco former train station is home to three museums. Focus your exploration on the Cincinnati History Museum and the Museum of Natural History & Science. Allow 3-4 hours to explore these fascinating exhibits.
- Distance: Union Terminal is a few miles west of downtown. A rideshare (~$10-15 one-way) or bus is recommended.
- Cost: All-museum pass ~$19.50 per person, totaling $39 for two.
- Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:30 PM)
Have a casual lunch at the Museum Center’s cafe or head back towards OTR/Downtown. Immerse yourselves in Cincinnati’s rich brewing history with a self-guided tour along the Brewery Heritage Trail in Over-the-Rhine, detailing the city’s pre-Prohibition brewing past. Alternatively, join a guided tour (often includes tastings) at a prominent brewery like Samuel Adams Cincinnati Taproom (1625 Central Pkwy, Cincinnati, OH 45214).
- Cost: Lunch ~$35-55. Brewery tour/tastings ~$20-40 for two (some self-guided tours are free).
- Evening (6:00 PM onwards)
For a change of scenery and a charming, upscale neighborhood feel, head to Hyde Park Square. Enjoy dinner at Alfio’s Buon Cibo (2724 Erie Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45208) for delicious Argentinean-Italian fusion, or for a more casual but highly-rated option, Arthur’s (3516 Edwards Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45208) for excellent burgers. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll around the square, browsing its boutique shops and charming atmosphere.
- Cost: Dinner ~$90-140 for two. Rideshare to Hyde Park ~$20-30 round trip.
- Morning (9:30 AM - 1:30 PM)
Journey to the magnificent Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal (1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45203). This stunning Art Deco former train station is home to three museums. Focus your exploration on the Cincinnati History Museum and the Museum of Natural History & Science. Allow 3-4 hours to explore these fascinating exhibits.
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Day 5: Quirky Gems & Fond Farewells
- Morning (10:00 AM - 1:00 PM)
Discover one of Cincinnati’s most unique attractions: the American Sign Museum (1330 Sherman Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45212). This colorful and nostalgic museum showcases the history of American signage, from hand-painted to neon, and is a truly memorable experience. Plan for 2-3 hours to explore the extensive collection.
- Distance: Located in the Camp Washington neighborhood, a short rideshare (~$10-15 one-way) from downtown/OTR.
- Cost: Admission ~$15 per person, totaling $30 for two.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM)
For your final Cincinnati lunch, head to the charming Clifton Gaslight District (Ludlow Ave) known for its independent shops and cafes. Grab a casual bite at a local eatery, or indulge in a classic Cincinnati treat at Graeter’s Ice Cream (various locations), a local institution. Spend some time browsing the unique shops for souvenirs or simply relax at a coffee shop, reflecting on your “Queen City Explorer” adventure.
- Cost: Lunch ~$30-50 for two.
- Evening
Enjoy a farewell dinner, perhaps returning to a favorite spot or trying a highly-rated downtown restaurant like Orchids at Palm Court (35 W 5th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202) for an exquisite and elegant meal (a significant splurge, check dress code) or a more relaxed but high-quality option like Sotto (118 E 6th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202) for authentic Italian. Afterward, depart from Cincinnati with cherished memories.
- Cost: Dinner ~$100-200+ for two (depending on choice).
- Morning (10:00 AM - 1:00 PM)
Discover one of Cincinnati’s most unique attractions: the American Sign Museum (1330 Sherman Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45212). This colorful and nostalgic museum showcases the history of American signage, from hand-painted to neon, and is a truly memorable experience. Plan for 2-3 hours to explore the extensive collection.
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